The five bells of Kirche Oberstrass ring out a harmonious peal. Their sound echoes across the Zurichberg. This isn’t just any church. This is Kirche Oberstrass a testament to Zurich’s history. It stands proudly on the Stapferstrasse a quiet street yet rich in stories.
Kirche Oberstrass wasn’t always this grand building. For centuries the area belonged to the Grossmünster church. The journey to the city was long. The people of Oberstrass desired their own place of worship. In 1734 a small Bethaus was built. It served as a temporary church until 1871.
That humble Bethaus was expanded into a proper church. A new wing was added complete with a spacious gallery. A sturdy tower topped with an octagonal cupola graced the structure. The church clock’s black and blue face with gold hands was a familiar sight. The cupola boasted light green sound holes. A small A-tuned bell resided there.
By 1900 the church had become too small. A competition led to the construction of the current Kirche Oberstrass. The groundbreaking ceremony happened in 1908. The cornerstone was laid shortly after. In 1910 the current Kirche Oberstrass was consecrated.
Over the years Kirche Oberstrass has undergone renovations. A fire in 2000 caused extensive interior damage. The church was restored to its original glory. The massive 1975 organ was a casualty of the fire. A digital organ took its place. Church pews gave way to chairs for more flexible use. The original biblical inscriptions were updated.
Today the Kirche Oberstrass offers around 1000 seats. It’s a beautiful building. Its exterior shows off the architects’ understanding of form and material truth. Different materials are used to accentuate its design. High quality materials were carefully chosen.
The interior is just as stunning. It boasts a magnificent five-bell chime. The bells were cast in Aarau by H. Rüetschi. Joseph von Moos created the stained glass windows. They depict children singing and playing music. Walter Jäggli-Fröhlich contributed glass coat-of-arms windows. Georg Röttinger painted a picture of the Grossmünster. Georg Burgstaller sculpted a relief in the apse. It shows twelve angels presenting gifts to Christ.
So next time you wander through Zurich take a moment to visit Kirche Oberstrass. Explore its history. Let its bells transport you to another time. Experience the dedication and craftsmanship behind this remarkable building.